A Peak Ahead

Ten years from now, there will be increased use of manufactured assemblies (pre-fab) for building components. These will be installed using three-dimensional holographic helmets, thereby negating the need for shop drawings and installation diagrams, and speaking English.

Community activism will radically affect the building industry. All households in a project's catchment area will be equipped with handheld voting machines to weigh in instantaneously on a designs amenities, schedule, staffing, bid lists, etc. on a real-time basis.

In addition, the New York City Department of Buildings will run like a well-oiled ship. Permits and licenses will be issued faster than anywhere else in the world; corruption will be unnecessary because the processes will be transparent and the Department of Buildings' reputation will be that of the best agency in town. Oh yes, and I will still be commissioner.

Patricia J. Lancaster
Commissioner
New York City Department of Buildings

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